Question

Which type of interaction stabilizes the α-helix and the β-pleated sheet structures of proteins?

A. Van der Waals forces.
B. Hydrophobic interactions.
C. Covalent bonds.
D. Ionic bonds.

Answer 1

Hydrogen bonding stabilizes the α-helix and β-pleated sheet structures of proteins.

Step-by-step explanation:

The type of interaction that stabilizes the α-helix and β-pleated sheet structures of proteins is hydrogen bonding. Hydrogen bonding occurs between the backbone atoms of the polypeptide chain and helps maintain the secondary structure of proteins. In an α-helix, hydrogen bonds form between the carbonyl oxygen of one amino acid and the amide hydrogen of an amino acid four residues down the chain. In a β-pleated sheet, hydrogen bonds form between neighboring strands.